Monday, 6/16/14
If you were to ask people at random, including Christians, to tell you what they know about the Apostle Peter, I believe the majority would begin by saying that he was the one who denied Jesus three times and also add that he was the one who was always putting his foot in his mouth. In fact, many may not know or just choose not to mention that, in spite of his shortcomings, Jesus saw enough good in him to appoint him as the leader of the other Disciples. They may also fail to add that he had glimpses of spiritual discernment the others did not have. When the Lord asked them who they said He was, Peter immediately responded,Thou art the Christ, (Messiah) the Son of the living God. (Matthew 16:16)
Many may not know or else have forgotten that Peter wanted to please his Master so much, he even tried to walk on water just to go meet him, or that he was the first Apostle that preached on the day of Pentecost where three thousand people decided to follow Jesus, or that God used him to heal many. There’s more: On the day he was cast into prison and flogged for preaching about Christ, he along with the other Disciples, rejoiced that they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for their Master. It is no wonder, then, that many who have not forgotten all this about Peter have made him their favorite biblical character. The point that I’m trying to make is that it is so easy to reflect more on people’s mistakes and failures that on the good things they have done. A preacher I know calls that the 99 and 1 syndrome. He means that many folks will remember the one time you failed them but forget about the other ninety nine when you didn’t.
If you live with somebody like that, I feel for you. Nevertheless, I want to remind you that, in Christ, there are also many folks around who are loving, considerate and supportive. More especially, there is One who will never remind you of the times you have failed Him. His name is Jesus. Jesus told Peter beforehand that he would deny Him three times, but after he did, He never again mentioned that painful day. That’s how the Lord treats us; that’s how we should treat others. If someone you know, inexplicably failed you or let you down, give him or her a break and pray that when you fail them, they’ll do the same. After all, if they messed up one time, it doesn’t mean that they suddenly don’t love you.
Memory Verse for the week: (Ephesians 4:32) Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as, in Christ, God forgave you.
